Ricardo Montalbán brushed off poor reviews of Fantasy Island
"I learned that a TV review means absolutely zilch to the public," said the actor.
While many actors are more than willing to live and die by a decent television review, many other actors understand that there’s more to life than a television critic’s personal view of their series. Ricardo Montalbán understood this. As a seasoned actor of both stage and screen, Montalbán knew that he would live through many tough reviews of his performances during his career. However, he would never let it deter him from working hard and performing to the best of his ability.
Moreover, the actor understood that sometimes, a television review had no reflection on his own talent.
“I learned that a TV review means absolutely zilch to the public,” said the Fantasy Island star during an interview with The Atlanta Journal. “The television critic must have the most frustrating profession in the world, because his word means zero. The public makes up its mind.”
Montalbán wasn’t willing to let one bad review ruin his good fun. He loved working on Fantasy Island. “I am very grateful,” said the actor. “Doing a TV series is a situation devoutly to be wished. It’s the only time I’ve had continuous employment since ‘53.”
Montalbán’s good nature wasn’t just for show. He remained optimistic in his professional and personal life. “The only fantasy Roarke could have would be my fantasy,” said the actor. ”My only fantasy - goodwill among all men. If that seems corny, then I am corny.”













